Following a packed meeting on Henry County’s senior property-tax freeze, Commissioner Mark Larson says county government should make it easier for residents to attend.
HENRY COUNTY, Mo. — Commissioner Mark Larson wants the Henry County Commission to consider holding at least one evening meeting each month, saying residents who cannot leave work during regular business hours deserve an opportunity to participate in county government.
Larson outlined the idea in a statement following the September 29 Commission meeting, where residents filled the room to speak about proposed changes to the county’s senior property-tax freeze.
“I intend to bring the idea before the Commission for discussion,” Larson wrote. “There would be details and logistics to work through, but I believe it is worth considering.”
His statement does not announce an approved schedule change. It does, however, identify public access as an issue he wants the Commission to address.
“In my mind, if we truly want citizens involved in county government, we should make a reasonable effort to give working people an opportunity to be in the room.”
MAKING ROOM FOR MORE RESIDENTS
Larson thanked those who attended the September 29 meeting, saying residents asked questions, spoke plainly and made their positions clear to all three commissioners.
But he also acknowledged that attendance during the day is difficult for many people. Jobs, health concerns, transportation problems and caregiving responsibilities can prevent residents from attending. Others may not learn about a meeting until it is too late.
His proposed evening meeting would offer another opportunity for people whose work schedules keep them away from daytime meetings.
Larson also pointed to a separate challenge: reaching residents who do not use Facebook, computers or social media.
He encouraged people to share county information with parents, grandparents, neighbors and friends rather than assuming everyone has seen an online announcement.
“Sometimes a phone call or a conversation across the fence may be the only way someone hears about it.”
For now, Larson’s evening-meeting proposal presents a concrete question to be put forth to the Commission: whether Henry County will adjust its meeting schedule to give more residents an opportunity to attend.
“Please keep paying attention,” Larson urged. “Keep talking to one another. Keep asking questions, and keep letting your elected officials know where you stand.”
By Michael Rosiere
Henry County Missouri Watchdog